Supports Heart Health
Folic acid supplements can help keep your heart in good shape by lowering levels of homocysteine—a type of amino acid in the blood. High levels of homocysteine have been linked to a greater risk of heart disease, so keeping it in check is a win for your heart.
Treats Folic Acid Deficiency Anemia
Folic acid pills are often used to treat and prevent anemia caused by a lack of folic acid. This type of anemia can happen due to poor diet, trouble absorbing nutrients (like in celiac disease), alcohol use, pregnancy, or even certain medications. People with conditions that break down red blood cells may also need to take folic acid to avoid becoming anemic.
Essential for Fetal Development
If you're pregnant or planning to be, folic acid is super important. It helps prevent serious birth defects related to the baby's brain and spine—like spina bifida, cleft lip, and cleft palate. That’s why doctors recommend it as a must-have supplement during pregnancy.
Other Potential Benefits
Helps Kidney Patients
Many people with kidney disease have high levels of homocysteine, which raises their risk for heart problems and strokes. Folic acid can help lower those levels, making it especially useful for folks with kidney issues.
May Protect Your Eyes as You Age
There’s some research showing that taking folic acid with vitamins B6 and B12 might lower your risk of developing age-related macular degeneration—a common eye condition that affects older adults.
Could Help Lower Blood Pressure
Some studies suggest that taking folic acid daily for about six weeks can help bring blood pressure down. But when combined with blood pressure medication, it doesn’t seem to give extra benefits beyond what the meds already do.
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